The Executive Leadership Cultivating High-Performing Teams & Cultures program kicked off this week hosting more than 25 participants from 9 different companies. The yearlong, hybrid program, in partnership with Heidrick & Struggles, gives Senior Directors and Vice President Level Leaders insight and skills that prepare them for future corporate level leadership roles. Opening remarks were delivered by Energy Workforce & Technology Council President, Molly Determan, welcoming participants and sharing an overview of the program.
The program was led and facilitated by Advisory Board Member Doug Orr, Partner and Laura Gironda, Principal, Heidrick & Struggles. By focusing on various topics, such as Management vs. Leadership, 7 Functions of an Executive Leadership Team, How to Communicate with C-Suite level leaders, and more, participants were able to dive deep into what it takes to refine their leadership skills inside and outside of their organization. Participants were given the opportunity to network with fellow industry leaders and engage in discussions in relation to the topics.
During breakouts, participants collaborated and introduced different perspectives on what they deem as effective.
“When I think about being a leader, it’s all about relationships. That’s the basis of everything; how you connect to people, and how people see you as a mentor in their lives. You don’t focus on their weaknesses, you build up their strengths, and then you know where they ‘fit on the bus’.”
– Participant
At the end of the program Advisory Board Member Neal Lux, President and Chief Executive Officer, Forum Energy Technologies addressed the group giving participants insight into his role and sharing his knowledge on how to be an effective leader.
“When you choose a mentor you have to have complete trust in that person, being open, honest and transparent. Following that guideline will help you get the most out of your mentor relationship. On the coaching side, trust is also important but good coaches will typically push you into more uncomfortable transparency which can open a lot of avenues.”
– Neal Lux
In addition to the seminars for these yearlong programs, participants engage in leadership development activities outside their company. They also attend at least two Energy Workforce leadership meetings, such as leadership forums, where participants engage and network with energy leaders from across the industry. The program includes executive coaching from Heidrick & Struggles as well as valuable mentorship from members of the Energy Workforce’s Board of Directors and Advisory Board. This gives participants a unique opportunity for strategic career advice and to develop relationships with industry leaders.
For any questions about the programs, contact Vice President Programs & Events Peggy Helfert.
Peggy Helfert, Vice President Programs & Events, writes about the Energy Workforce’s sector-specific best practices and leadership. Click here to subscribe to the Energy Workforce newsletter, which highlights sector-specific issues, best practices, activities and more.
